You may be feeling a bit drowsy after losing an hour of sleep, but the Norfolk County Fire Department wants to make sure you check an important task off your to-do list.
That was Fire Prevention Officer Cory Armstrong-Smith.
While you’re checking your alarms, there are a few other things he hopes you’ll do as well.
Replacing the batteries is important, but if your alarm is expired, changing the batteries won’t help.
As part of regular alarm maintenance, be sure to press the test button.
It’s not just to confirm that the alarm is working—it can also teach you something important.
Checking your alarms and recognizing their sounds doesn’t just keep your home safe—it also helps our local volunteer firefighters by preventing unnecessary calls.
As a Fire Prevention Officer, Armstrong-Smith hopes that everyone stays safe and that alarms will never have to be used because a fire never happens.
That said, to reduce the risk of false alarms and fire hazards, he has some important safety reminders.
To avoid setting off your carbon monoxide alarm:
✔ Do maintain your fuel-fired appliances regularly.
❌ Don’t use a BBQ inside your garage, even on rainy days.
❌ Don’t run a generator inside a garage.
❌ Don’t leave your car idling in the garage, even with the door open.
To avoid setting off your smoke alarm:
✔ Do stay in the kitchen and watch your cooking.
✔ Do be cautious if you smoke, and always dispose of smoking materials safely.
✔ Do pay attention to your electronics—replace damaged or malfunctioning devices promptly.
By following these simple steps, you’ll help ensure your home stays safe and that your alarms work when they’re truly needed.